Guide to Armenia

Full name: The Republic of Armenia

Location: Southern Caucasus region, a landlocked country bordering Turkey and Georgia, Azerbajan and Iran.

Population: 3 million (UN, 2007)

Capital: Yerevan

Area: 29,743 sq km (11,484 sq miles)

Major languages: Armenian, Russian is uderstood but hardly used. Kurdish may be heard.

Major religion: Christianity

Life expectancy: 68 years (men), 75 years (women) (UN)

Currency: 1 dram = 100 lumas

Internet domain: .am

International dialling code: +374

Time Zone: GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October.

Main Airport: Zvartnots (EVN)

Voltage: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. European plugs with two round pins are used.

Climate: Summer days are hot and dry but temperatures fall sharply at night. Winters are very cold with heavy snow. May to June and September offer visitors mild, warm weather.

Health: Seek medical advice before travel. Jabs may be needed for Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Malaria, Rabies, Tetanus, Typhoid and Yellow fever. Hepatitis B and E, tick-borne encephalitis and tuberculosis may all occur. It is not advisable to drink tap water unless it has been boiled or sterilised.

Entry/Visa: A valid passport with five months left and visa is required.

Notes:
Taking photographs of military bases is frowned upon. The same goes for photographing churches and religious sites in general as this may pique cultural sensitivities.

10 February 2008